Inside Atelier Marinka

Up a narrow winding road in the village of Dol Sv. Marije lies an artist’s studio. It’s not easy to find, even with instructions (turn right in front of the Cafe Trocadero and keep going til the signs run out). In a peaceful corner of the village, Marinka creates not just her own artwork but an inviting space for other artists to come and learn or participate – paint, sculpt, or whatever.

The gate in the high stone wall opens with a tinkling bell to announce a visitor. Inside, the courtyard and buildings are all jumbled together with stairs here and there to connect them. Artwork everywhere, with shady vines and flowers and a path leads uphill to a lovely peaceful garden. So many nooks and crannies with exciting art going on everywhere – mosaics, oil paintings and watercolours each in their own space.

Saturday morning art group

When we arrived, the Saturday morning children’s painting group was engrossed – intent on finishing their masterpieces before parents arrived to collect. The quiet concentration was impressive! Further up in the back corner of the garden, we met a group of German artists who were sitting in the shade, contemplating some large blocks of Brac stone and a massive oak beam collected from a neighbour. Some serious stone-working tools were scattered around. This was a sculptor and his students, making use of the local materials. I shudder to think of the excess weight of their luggage on the way home!

Marinka in her studio

Marinka herself works primarily in watercolours and oils. Her “Planet Hvar” series is an exploration of the natural elements and traditions of the island. The colours and expressive flowing lines show her joy in the subject. Originally from Slovenia, Marinka has a background in design, having worked in Germany for many years.  She came to Hvar with her late partner and fellow artist, Marin, whose artwork is on display in the  konoba gallery as a memorial to his life and work.

Marinka's latest oil paintings

You can visit Atelier Marinka to see the artwork, take a workshop, or stay for a inspirational retreat in painting, sculpting, mosaic or whatever creative medium you’re currently exploring. This is an art studio like no other!

To contact Marinka,
call  0385 21 718 690
or email marin-ka@hotmail.com

Since she has no internet connection at the studio, it’s really better to call!

A watercolour from Marinka's "Planet Hvar" series